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IPPF Youth Volunteer Handbook

IPPF Youth Volunteer Handbook. East & South East Asia and Oceania Region Youth Forum Singapore 2009. August 2010

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IPPF Youth Volunteer Handbook

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  1. IPPF Youth Volunteer Handbook East & South East Asia and Oceania Region Youth Forum Singapore 2009

  2. August 2010 This handbook was prepared by Clara Wille, the 2009 intern from York University, Canada with assistance from Jayamalar Samuel, the attendees of the ESEAOR Youth Forum 2009 in Singapore, young volunteers with FRHAM, and Regional Office Staff. Additional edits were made by Lexi Abel, a 2010 intern from Columbia University in New York City. The Youth Volunteer Handbook is a living document and can be updated at regular intervals as appropriate.

  3. Acronyms • AIDS Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome • CEDAW Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women • CRC Convention on the Rights of the Child • ED Executive Director • ESEAOR East and South East Asia and Oceania Region • GC Governing Council • HIV Human Immunodeficiency Virus • ICDP International Conference on Population and Development • IPPF International Planned Parenthood Federation • MA Member Association • MDG Millennium Development Goal • RC Regional Council • REC Regional Executive Council • RO Regional Office • STI Sexually Transmitted Infection • SRH Sexual and Reproductive Health • SRHR Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights • SROP Sub-Regional Office for the Pacific Islands • UN United Nations • UNICEF United Nations Children Fund • UNFPA United Nations Population Fund • WHO World Health Organization • YFS Youth Friendly Services

  4. Contents • Chapter 1: Introduction • What is IPPF? • What is IPPF ESEAOR? • IPPF Strategic Framework • Youth Participation and the Adult-Youth Partnership • Chapter 2: Youth Volunteerism in IPPF • Why should I volunteer with IPPF? • What can I expect when I volunteer at IPPF? • What can I do as a Youth Volunteer? • Governance e. What are my rights and responsibilities as a Youth Volunteer? • Chapter 3: Issues surrounding Young People’s Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights a. Defining Sexual and Reproductive Health b. Youth Friendly Services c. Religion, Youth and Sexuality d. How do sexual and reproductive health and rights effect youth? e. International Declarations on the Rights of Youth • Chapter 4: Practical Tips and Guidelines • Tips for Attitude • Tips for Effective Communication • Tips for Advocacy • Tips for Networking • Tips for Funding • Tips for Youth Projects • Tips for Dealing with Conflict • How can I tell if the Youth-Adult Partnership is being implemented? • Chapter 5: How can I stay involved with IPPF after I’m 25? a. I’m 25. Now what? • Annexes a. IPPF Policy 4.7 – Policy on Youth b. IPPF Policy 1.2 – Policy on Volunteering c. ESEAOR Member Associations d. References

  5. Congratulations! You are taking a brave step towards becoming a IPPF Youth Volunteer! This handbook belongs to those who love, care and are ready to take action. The provided guidelines and tips will help prepare you to be a Youth Volunteer.

  6. Chapter 1: Introduction “Young people are not only the future – they are also the present.” – Youth Manifesto

  7. What is International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF)? • IPPF is a global service provider and a leading advocate of sexual and reproductive health (SRH) and rights for all.  • IPPF is sustained by the efforts of Staff and Volunteers alike. • The work of IPPF depends on the partnership between volunteers and staff at every level of the organization. • We believe that sexual and reproductive rights should be internationally recognized as human rights and therefore guaranteed for everyone. • We encourage individuals and women in particular, to take control of their reproductive lives. • We promote equality between men and women, aiming to eliminate gender biases, especially those that threaten the well-being of women and girls. • Above all, we promote choices. • What is IPPF ESEAOR? • ESEAOR stands for the East and South East Asia and Oceania Region. • IPPF is made up of many Member Associations (MA) all over the world. A MA is a lead NGO in SRH in a country that complies with the standards of IPPF membership. IPPF works in over 170 countries and has 6 Regional Offices (RO). • ESEAOR is one of 6 regions in which IPPF works. The other regions are: - Africa Region - Arab World Region - European Network - South Asia Region - Western Hemisphere Region For more information on any region, please visit www.ippf.org.

  8. There are 26 countries in ESEAOR • IPPF ESEAOR is based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and the Sub-Regional office for the Pacific Islands (SROP) is in Fiji. The RO and SROP assist in the planning and funding of SRH MAs in the region in order to improve access to services to all people. • IPPF Strategic Framework • In 2005, IPPF developed a new Strategic Framework for the years 2005-2015. The Strategic Framework focuses on five major areas, called the 5 A’s: • Adolescents/young people • AIDS/HIV • Abortion • Access • Advocacy • IPPF recognizes that this generation of youth is the largest generation of youth in history and has made youth involvement a priority within this framework.

  9. To increase youth involvement, the Strategic Framework includes the following goal and objectives for Adolescent A: Goal All adolescents and young people are aware of their sexual and reproductive rights, are empowered to make informed choices and decisions regarding their SRH and are able to act on them. Objectives • To strengthen commitment to and support for the sexual and reproductive health and rights and needs of adolescents/young people. • To promote participation of adolescents/young people in governance and in the identification, development and management of programs that affect them. • To increase access to comprehensive, youth friendly, gender-sensitive sexuality education. • To increase access to a broad range of youth friendly services. • To reduce gender-related barriers and practices which affect the SRH and rights of young women.

  10. Youth Participation and the Youth-Adult Partnership Youth Participation Youth Participation is important and necessary for the achievement of IPPF’s goals and objectives. Youth participation provides young people with the opportunity to get involved and have their say in a way that is comfortable and appropriate for them. Youth participation is essential and necessary for the youth voice to be heard and included. In order for youth participation to be successful, respect, collaboration and active listening from all sides is crucial.

  11. Youth-Adult Partnership Within IPPF, the Youth-Adult Partnership encourages young people and adults to embrace change and support each other for their mutual benefit and for the betterment of the organization. This partnership advocates for democratic values – individuals are treated equally and without discrimination.¹ Below are the four cross-cutting themes of youth participation.² "When I volunteered in FPOP, I gained confidence to speak about sensitive issues in my community. I was able to have the courage to speak on behalf of my fellow youth fighting for SRHR issues locally, regionally and internationally. I was able to push for programs and policies that were not accessible for young people.  Much more, I appreciated working with the adults. I was able to gain their trust, support, and respect, and they treated me as an equal during decision making." – Youth Representative to Regional Council ¹ Samuel, Jayamalar. (2009). Report of the Winds of Change Skills Building Workshop. Kuala Lumpur: International Planned Parenthood Federation. Setting standards for youth participation. (2004). London: International Planned Parenthood Federation.

  12. Chapter 2: Youth Volunteerism in IPPF Youth Volunteers are an important part of IPPF programs. A Youth Volunteer is a youth that gives his or her time to their national IPPF MA. When you volunteer at an IPPF MA, you are automatically considered a volunteer of IPPF. IPPF defines ‘young people’ as anyone between the ages of 10-24 years and ‘youth’ as anyone between the ages of 15-24 years.³ However, IPPF recognizes that not all young people are the same or have the same opinions. Young people of all backgrounds have a lot to offer to any organization, but especially one that is advocating for their rights. ³ Glossary. 2010, July. International Planned Parenthood Federation. http://glossary.ippf.org/GlossaryBrowser.aspx

  13. Why should I volunteer with IPPF? Skill Building Being a Youth Volunteer is an excellent way to learn and grow as an individual. During conferences and workshops you will have a chance to develop professional skills and build capacity within the sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) arena. Networking By working as a Youth Volunteer, you will have an opportunity to meet youth and adults who share your passion for SRHR. Networking will help you reach your personal and professional goals. Advocating for Policy You are the next generation of decision makers, and this opportunity will help you find your voice. You will learn how to shape your ideas into concrete action items that influence SRH policy makers in your country and region. Giving Back to Your Community Youth Volunteers share their knowledge of SRHR with their communities. Also, you can advocate for SRH services and rights in your community, country or region. I love being a volunteer for IPPF. I get to join other young people who are just as passionate about sexual and reproductive health and rights as I am. I have made many good friends while travelling around the region, and I have gained so much experience and great memories because of it. When I look back and reflect, I would like to think that I made a positive impact on the world by working with such a great team at my MA and IPPF. - TeganAhuriri, Family Planning New Zealand & Youth Representative

  14. By having youth participate, IPPF also benefits as an organization in the following ways: • Youth volunteers often have an open mind and offer new, innovative and fun ideas for projects. • Youth are able to engage young people to communicate openly about SRHR. • Since young people usually have less access to SRH information and services, their participation often means that their needs are reflected directly into programming, so that programs are more successful in meeting the needs of youth. • The organization has the opportunity to learn from young people and to listen to young people express their concerns about the organization. Most importantly, volunteering at IPPF is a two way process. IPPF and MAs gain valuable input from Youth Volunteers, and in return, Youth Volunteers can expect to meet new people, gain new skills and experiences, and have a sense of satisfaction from the work they have done.

  15. “During my time as a Volunteer, I had the opportunity to be a Peer Educator in the Association, run the Young Boys Program, be an actor for the drama group, represent the youth on our Board and I was able to represent my country for the Regional Youth Forum. In the Regional Youth Forum I can push and fight with the other representatives for the issues and the things that will help youth working as Volunteers in our own MA.” –Youth Volunteer from Tonga • What can I expect when I volunteer with IPPF? • To increase your knowledge of the way organizations are run, the ways that projects are developed, and how to turn ideas into action. • To increase your knowledge about your own rights, freedom, and choices. • To have a better understanding of advocacy and what is means to advocate. • To have a better understanding of the way that governance of an organization works. • To understand the wide range of issues that affect youth, such as HIV/AIDS, SRH, safe and pleasurable sex, safe abortion, gender and diversity. • To strengthen the Youth-Adult Partnership at IPPF. • To have opportunities to meet and work with other youth from your country, your region, and all over the globe who are interested in promoting the SRHR and freedom of young people. • To gain access to the international work of IPPF. • To share and exchange experiences in other countries. • To “own” decisions made about our lives, increases self-confidence and empower ourselves. • To gain a wide career perspectives, having insight into the fields of healthcare provider, social worker, counselor, activist, among others.

  16. “Volunteering in IPPF has widely opened my eyes. It gives me a better understanding of how our region, which has a broad spectrum of different cultures and concerns, works with sex and reproductive health and rights. It is also great to meet a group of young advocates who dedicate themselves to the welfare of other young people.” • Youth Volunteer and Youth Representative from Hong Kong What can I do as a Youth Volunteer? Designing Young people get to design projects and programs run by youth for youth on SRHR issues, providing information and creating awareness among public. This is an opportunity for youth to design programs and activities, while having access to adults for guidance. Implementation Peer to Peer Education – getting trained in safer sex and reproductive and sexual health information to share with other youth, including underserved and high-risk youth who may not have access to information and services. Exhibitions Set up a table at a school or community event where people can come and ask questions about services and/or information, sexual rights, condoms, among other things. Online Forum Use the internet as a way to stay connected with other IPPF Youth Volunteers and youth involved in the organization. Online forums are used to share information and as a way to get more youth involved in the organization. Example In Kiribati, youth at the Kiribati Family Health Association give condoms out at night clubs on Friday and speak to youth there about safer sex.

  17. Advocacy Lobbying – speaking with political leaders to convince them to support legislation which can reduce barriers to youth access to SRH services Sensitization - Speaking to community members, like religious leaders or teachers, about the importance of comprehensive sexuality education, sexual health and reproductive health, youth sexual rights, etc. In Tonga, youth have started a drama group to do outreach and raise awareness of SRH in the community Event Planning Plan an event with a theme. For example, have a group of volunteers host a football events and speak to people there about your cause. Fundraising Fundraising for your MA does not need to be formal or to be from donors. Youth Volunteers can organize fun activities like a Gala Dinner or a Movie Night to raise funds. Every little bit counts towards the improvement of SRH of young people.

  18. Governance In addition to these activities, youth volunteers have an opportunity to get involved with the governance of IPPF, which means having a voice in the decision-making process. IPPF has developed the Code of Good Governance to assist the volunteers to have their voice in the decision making process and to actively participate in the Governing Council meetings. The next section explains the different levels of governance and where youth are involved.

  19. Step by Step Process of Youth Involvement in Governance • MA Level • Youth volunteers can be elected to the National Governing Board of the Member Association. • IPPF strongly encourages each MA to have 20% youth representation on its governing board. • The youth volunteers at each MA elect a youth volunteer to participate at the regional Youth Forum which is held annually. The represented youth volunteer can either be a Board member at MA level or just a youth volunteer. • Youth Forum Level • Youth participants from all the MAs discuss issues related to youth in the region and share outcomes and recommendations with the Executive Directors (ED). They also elect representatives to represent youth at the RC. • The Representative with the most votes will be the Regional Youth Representative. • The Representative with the second highest votes will be the Alternate Regional Youth Representative. • RC Level • The RC is the decision making body for the Region. •  All elected Youth Representatives attend the RC, and represent 20% of all the RC members. • REC & GC Level • The REC is the decision making body on Finances and Policy for the Region. • The GC is the governing body for IPPF. • The Regional Youth Representative, in addition to attending the RC, also attends the GC, the REC, and other meetings as the representative for the youth in the region. • If the Regional Youth Representative is unable to attend any of these meetings, the Alternate will go in his or her place. Youth Representative Other Youth related events / meetings *Young volunteers will be selected as appropriate Regional Executive Committee (REC) Governing Council

  20. What are my Rights and Responsibilities as a Youth Volunteer? The following Rights and Responsibilities have been discussed by Youth Volunteers. They are not definitive or exclusive. Instead, they represent living guidelines for the role of Youth Volunteers in the organization at all levels.  Samuel, Jayamalar. (2009). Report of the Winds of Change Skills Building Workshop. (2009). Kuala Lumpur: International Planned Parenthood Federation.

  21. Chapter 3: Issues Surrounding Young People’s Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights IPPF believes that sexuality, and the pleasure we derive from it, is a vital part of life for all human beings. We are aware that many things shape a person’s sexuality and their decisions around it, including religion. Whatever path you choose for your own sexuality, it is important to know how to protect yourself and to share that information with others. This chapter will discuss the meaning of sexual and reproductive health, issues that affect young people’s SRHR and provide information about key declarations that have promoted the rights of young people.

  22. Defining Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) Sexual Health Sexual health is a state of physical, emotional, mental and social well-being related to sexuality; it is not merely the absence of disease, dysfunction or weakness. Sexual health requires a positive and respectful approach to sexuality and sexual relationships, as well as the possibility of having pleasurable and safe sexual experiences that are free of force, discrimination and violence. For sexual health to be attained and maintained, the sexual rights of all persons must be respected, protected and fulfilled. ⁶ Reproductive Health Reproductive health means that people are able to have a responsible, satisfying and safe sex life, and that they are able to have children and have the freedom to decide if, when and how often to have children. This includes the rights of men and women to be informed of their choices and to have access to safe, effective, affordable and acceptable methods of fertility regulation of their choice, and the rights of access to appropriate health care services that will enable women to go safely through pregnancy and childbirth. ⁷ * Images borrowed from Health, Happy and Hot. (2010). International Planned Parenthood Federation. http://www.ippf.org/en/Resources/Guides- toolkits/Healthy+Happy+and+Hot.htm ⁶ WHO. Sexual health. [cited 5 December 2007]; Available from: http://www.who.int/reproductive-health/gender/sexualhealth.html#3 ⁷ WHO. Sexual health. [cited 5 December 2007]; Available from: http://www.who.int/reproductive-health/gender/sexualhealth.html#3

  23. Youth Friendly Services (YFS) Youth friendly services (YFS) are SRH services that attract adolescents, responsively meet their needs, and succeed in keeping young clients for continuing care. For example, services should be offered at a place and time that is convenient for youth, and should be offered without discrimination or judgment. YFS should offer a wide range of services relevant to adolescents’ needs. Although it is not always possible, attempts should be made to identify and provide the most needed SRH services, including STI/HIV services, at the same clinic. SHR counseling and services should be provided at YF clinics.⁸ For more information, check out: http://www.ippf.org/NR/rdonlyres/61BA967F-5D07-41EA-907D-C8AB128E002D/0/InspireProvide.pdf “What is Sexual Reproductive Health?" This was the first question that popped out when I first joined the Federation of Reproductive health Association and IPPF in 2007. My perception of SRH has changed overtime, after I have volunteered as a young trainer and advocate forSRH issues. Many young people are still unaware of their rights to access to SRH information and services. I hope that I can bring more young people to see the world with not only their eyes but also with their heart and mind." - Regional Youth Representative Religion, Youth, and Sexuality “Religion gives hope to people, and we need to remember that IPPF also provides hope to people in need.” – Youth Participant from 9th youth working group meeting IPPF is aware that religion, faith and spirituality are important for many young people. Whatever religion, faith or spirituality young people choose or find themselves in, it influences their ideas, values, and decisions about sexuality and sexual behavior. Religion, sexuality, and SRHR of young people are an area that IPPF hopes to have more open dialogue on in the future.⁹ Our MAs work with religious leaders in gaining understanding and support. For example, the Madrasah Project in Bangladesh, provided SRH programmes to nine Islamic schools. By working with Islamic leaders, the Family Planning Association of Bangladesh incorporated health posts, peer educators, resource centres and much more through out the course of the project.¹⁰ ⁸International planned parenthood federation: international medical advisory panel. (2009, August 1). Retrieved from http://www.ippf.org/en/Resources/Medical/International+Medical+Advisory+Panel.htm ⁹ International Planned Parenthood Federation. (2008). 9th youth working group meeting report. Rabat, Morocco: International Planned Parenthood Federation. ¹⁰ Annual report: madrasah students initiative for adolescents health in Bangladesh. (2007). Family Planning Association of Bangladesh ,

  24. How do sexual and reproductive health and rights • affect youth? • Unfortunately, young people are lacking access to sexual and • reproductive health services and rights. However, young people have • the chance to break negative SRHS patterns and create change. Youth • Volunteers at IPPF are on the forefront of this change! • Here are the facts: • adolescent females and males are reaching puberty sooner, marrying later and having more premarital sex¹¹ • the unmet need for contraceptives among adolescents is more than twice that of married women ¹² • one third of women give birth before the age of 20, with deliveries by women under 20 totaling 15 million annually¹³ • five million adolescents between the ages of 15 and 18 have unsafe abortions each year¹⁴ • 70,000 abortion-related deaths occur among this age group every year¹ • half of new HIV infections occur in 15-to-24 year old¹⁶ • one third of new cases of curable sexually transmitted infections (STIs) affect people younger than 25¹⁷ • Millennium Development Goal (MDG) 5.B aims to provide • universal access to reproductive health for all, which includes • adolescents With the help of committed youth and the support • of MDG 5.B, improvements in SRHR will be made! ¹⁸ ¹¹ Adolescent sexual and reproductive health: toolkit for humanitarian settings. (2009). UNFPA and Save the Children USA, Retrieved from http://www.unfpa.org/webdav/site/global/shared/documents/publications/ 2009/adol_toolkit_humanitarian.pdf ¹²,¹³,¹⁴,¹⁵,¹⁶,¹⁷ibid. ¹⁸Factsheet: Young People and Universal Access to Reproductive Health. 2010. Youth Coalition. http://www.youthcoalition.org/site08/attachs/UARH_factsheet_ENGLISH.pdf

  25. International Declarations on the Rights of Youth IPPF recognizes that it can be hard for youth to access information on their SRHR. It has worked to highlight the rights that young people have when it comes to their Sexual and Reproductive Rights through the adoption of Sexual Rights: an IPPF Declaration, the IPPF Youth Manifesto, and the incorporation of the Convention of the Rights of the Child into its framework. These documents are summarized below. Sexual Rights: an IPPF Declaration The Declaration was adopted by the IPPF Governing Council on 10 May, 2008. The document was prepared in order to identify the sexual rights of individuals already protected under human rights, but which need special attention to ensure that sexual rights are valued and protected. It is identified in Principle 2 of the Declaration that though human rights apply differently to minors (individuals under the age of 18), the sexual rights of youth must be protected. The Sexual Rights: IPPF Declaration has ten core sexual rights that underlie IPPF’s work with young people, which are: • The Right to Equality • The Right to Participation • The Right to Life and to be Free from Harm • The Right to Privacy • The Right to Think and Express Yourself Freely • The Right to Health • The Right to Know and Learn • The Right to Choose Whether or Not to Marry or Have Children • The Right to Have Your Rights Upheld ¹⁹ ¹⁹ Sexual rights: an IPPF declaration. (2006). International planned parenthood federation . Retrieved (2009, August 1) from http://www.ippf.org/NR/rdonlyres/9E4D697C-1C7D-4EF6- AA2A-6D4D0A13A108/0/SexualRightsIPPFdeclaration.pdf

  26. IPPF Youth Manifesto The Youth Manifesto was developed by IPPF Youth Volunteers. They came together to recognize their own rights and identify what they need to live healthy lives. The Youth Manifesto outlines the youth’s consensus on their understanding of their rights. It was completed in 1998. Under the Youth Manifesto, which is in agreement with international human rights laws and the IPPF Declaration on Sexual Rights, youth have the right: • To be yourself – free to make your own decisions, to express yourself, to enjoy sex, to be safe, to choose to marry (or not to marry) and plan a family • To know – about sex, contraceptives, STIs/HIV, and about your rights • To have pleasure and confidence in relationships and all aspects of their sexuality • To protect yourself and be protected – from unplanned pregnancies, STDs/HIV and sexual abuse • To have health care – which is confidential, affordable, of good quality and given with due respect • To work as an advocate for the advancement of your own rights ²⁰ Youth Manifesto Core Values Respect for diversity Confidentiality Access to contraceptive services free from judgment Informed choices Partnerships of young people and adults Innovation Sustainability Freedom of sexual expression Sexual enjoyment ²⁰ Voice! How the IPPF/youth manifesto can work for you. (2006). International planned parenthood federation . Retrieved (2009, August 1) from http://www.ippf.org/NR/rdonlyres/8D8B8E8E-9224-47A6-8626- A0906F79DBBA/0/youthmanifesto.pdf

  27. The Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) • The CRC is a document, outlining the human rights of children all over the world. It is an initiative of the United Nations (UN) and was adopted by the General Assembly of the UN in 1989. It is a legally binding instrument, which means that governments and organizations that have signed the document can be held legally responsible when the rights of the child are not protected within their country or work as laid out in the convention. The Committee on the Rights of the Child is responsible for monitoring compliance with the CRC, and putting pressure on governments or organizations that do not uphold their commitment.²¹ • As a young person, under the Convention on the Rights of the Child, you have the right: • To express your thoughts, views, and opinions and to have your views appreciated in line with your age and maturity • To your thoughts, conscience, and religion • To freedom of expression, including to seek, receive and impart information • IPPF has signed the CRC, and has a responsibility to protect these rights within the organization. • For more information, check out:http://www.ippf.org/NR/rdonlyres/ • 1F0F2AA6-5A35-4771-8222-E002874748F1/0/Ayoungpersonsguide.pdf Has your country signed the Convention on the Rights of the Child? Log on to www.unicef.org to find out. If your country has not signed or not actively implementing the CRC, you can work together with your MA to advocate for implementation of CRC in your country. ²¹Convention on the rights of the child. (1989). UN high commission for human rights. Retrieved (2009, August 1) from http://www2.ohchr.org/english/law/crc.htm

  28. International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) In 1994, world leaders gathered together in Cairo, Egypt to develop a population and development action plan. The Action Plan was able to set goals for universal education, a reduction of infant and child mortality, a reduction of maternal mortality, and access to reproductive and sexual health services including family planning.²² ICPD acknowledges that access to reproductive and sexual health services are human rights. 15andCounting is a campaign to achieve better access to SRH services and education regardless of age, gender or where people live. This campaign recognizes that young people are often not able to access SRH and is working to achieve access for all. To find out more visit www.15andcounting.org.²³ The Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) CEDAW was adopted in 1979 by the UN General Assembly and is often described as an international bill of rights for women. It defines what constitutes discrimination against women and sets up an agenda for national action to end discrimination. ²⁴ The Convention aims to end discrimination for all women, which includes girls and young women. CEDAW supports the rights of women regardless of age, religion and ethnicity. Has your country accepted the Convention and committed itself to ending all forms of discrimination against women? Find out at: www.un.org/womenwatch/daw/cedaw/states.htm ²² United Nations. (1994). Programme of action - adopted from the international conference on population and development. Cairo, Egypt: United Nations. ²³ Count me in: sexual rights for all. Retrieved from http://www.15andcounting.org/ ²⁴ United Nations. (1994). Convention on the elimination of all forms of discrimination against women . New York: UN General Assembly.

  29. Chapter 4: Practical Tips and Guidelines Tips for Attitude Having a positive attitude is key to being a Youth Volunteer. A good attitude can turn problems into opportunities and lead to greater success as a volunteer. For example, negativity is contagious. By keeping a can-do attitude even when things get difficult, you model for other youth the power of positive thinking. STAY POSITIVE! Tips for Effective Communication Though SRH is easy to get passionate about, try to keep a level head and speak calmly and clearly in all professional situations. When communicating by email, remember to copy to all necessary people to keep the lines of communication running. If you can, be very clear and offer to make any point that you have made clearer or to answer any questions. If you are posting statements publically on the internet, make sure that everything you post is respectful and culturally appropriate. Remember: everyone has access to what you post on the internet. If you have a conflict with MA staff, try to speak to them about it in a non-threatening way. Try to understand that they might not be aware of how their behavior makes you feel. Try not to make any accusations, but speak from the way that you are feeling rather than about their actions. Working as equals means respecting one another, especially when there is a conflict.

  30. Tips for Advocacy Advocacy is a set of political actions implemented according to a strategic plan and aims to focus the attention of the community on a specific problem and guide decision makers toward a solution. Young people can have a lot of influence in their communities if they use advocacy. They can speak directly to decision makers about how their policies affect their lives, and what they think needs to change. Here are some tips for being an advocate in your community: Identify your cause: Find the root causes for the problems that you want to help. An example of a problem, is a rise of teenage pregnancies. A cause would be “not enough sex education and contraceptive services to young women,” for example. You can then move on to the next step. Identify your targets: There are two kinds of targets: primary targets and secondary targets. Primary targets are the people who have the power to make the changes you want. Your job as an advocate is to tell them why they should use that power. A secondary target is a person or a group of people who can influence or also try to push the primary target to use that power. China Youth Network (CYN), founded by four university students in June 2004, is a youth volunteer organization that I work with. CYN has a slogan "by the youth, for the youth". We found that China is such a big country that young people in remote or rural places were often ignored. We gradually set up local county networks in China. We offer them funds, and go to rural places to conduct peer education or training of trainers. What is more, we advocate sexual and reproductive health and rights for these vulnerable and at risk youth using examples and experiences from these local networks which make our advocacy more touching and convincing. -Youth Volunteer from China

  31. Within your targets, it is important to identify three types of people: helpfulallies, undecided targets, and unhelpful targets. Identify your goal: For each advocacy opportunity, you should have a specific goal. Each little goal may lead up to a bigger goal. For example, your goal may be to get someone to agree to meet you to talk more about the issue. This is a small step but is going towards the bigger goal of getting that person to agree with your message. Come up with your message: Your message should be brief, give an introduction to the issues, and have a purpose. A good advocacy message informs, persuades, and moves the audience to action. Before you speak to your target, you should decide what the best way is to approach your target. Individually? As a group? At their office? In the lift? After you have decided what your goals, targets, and messages are, you can decide your strategy. This may be to have a workshop that achieves your goal or to start a campaign where youth speak to teachers one on one. Brainstorm and cooperate with your allies to get the best outcomes! • Helpful allies share your goals and agree with your message. They do not need to be told why the goals are important, but you can network and cooperate with them to advocate to the undecided. • Undecided people either don’t know a lot about the topic, or don’t know what to think about the topic, so they are more likely to listen to what you are saying and to be influenced by your arguments. Undecided people should be your main target because you want them to believe in your cause to promote change either directly or indirectly. • Unhelpful people have decided that they do not agree with your cause and may be fighting against you. It is often a waste of resources to try to convince these people. • Advocacy Message • Informs – the audience about the issue or problem • Persuades – • a. that the problem needs to be addressed • b. there are benefits in addressing the problem • c. that the proposed solutions are effective • Moves to Action - gives a clear call to action and inspires the audience to actually take the action as proposed

  32. Examples of causes, targets, and messages: • Your cause: Teenage pregnancy rates are rising in your country or community • Your primary targets: Ministry of Education • Your secondary targets: Teachers in schools • Your goal: to sensitize your targets (Ministry of Education and teachers) to the need for sex education in schools. You want to educate the teachers in sex education and to encourage them to influence policy makers to make sex education mandatory in schools. • Your message: Educating young girls about safe sex and SRH is the best way to give them control over whether or not they have children, and will decrease the rates of teenage pregnancy. If less girls were pregnant, more could continue with their education, and help the economy of the country. • When you speak to your target, make sure that you: • Clearly identify yourself • Start with something that you have in common, for example, “HIV/AIDS is an issue that affects young people” • Stay focused on achieving your goal • Final Tips: • Practice your message • Know your facts • Be confident • Have no more than 3 main points to cover • Know what the opposition is saying—and come up with counter arguments • Stay calm and professional

  33. Tips for Networking • Networking is creating productive relationships that support your cause. • It can be very helpful to further your goals since it utilizes the knowledge • and ideas of others from different places. • When you are at a conference or meeting, introduce yourself to as many people as possible. It is likely that you will be working with these people again, and just having them know your face can make working together easier. Some youth have even made name cards to hand out to people at conferences and workshops. • Lack of communication and organization may delay the success of an initiative. Try to keep projects alive by keeping up communications. • Choose a “Topic Leader” who will remind others to keep the conversation going after the meeting or conference is over. Try sharing this responsibility by taking turns. • Use the technology available. Twitter, Facebook, and Yahoo are just a few examples of internet-based tools that are easy to use and free. • When meeting other young people who have similar interests or have a lot of energy but do not have somewhere to put it, invite them to come along with you to see what kind of work you do. • Host a new volunteer day and advertise the event. On this day, you can show other youth around and explain what you do, and if they are interested, they can sign up. • Tips for Funding • Almost all projects require funding. Thankfully, there are a variety of • ways to get funding - you just have to be creative and resourceful. Here • are some suggestions: • Have a Fundraiser: Work with your MA to organize an event such as hosting a karaoke competition or selling handmade crafts. • Search the Web: Funding for youth projects is available through a variety of organizations on the internet. Do research to find which funder would be best for you and submit a project proposal. • Use your Community: Contact local businesses and community organization for support. • Most importantly, DON’T GIVE UP! There is funding out there for your project, you just have to find it!

  34. Tips for Youth Projects ²⁵ Take advantage of the space for youth at all levels. Find an area that is best for you and brainstorm new ideas for that area. Develop your thoughts and opinions, and share them with the youth around you. More can be accomplished when you work together. Remember that even though you are young, you have equal say in decisions that concern you. By respecting yourself, others will respect you too. Try to work at your own pace. Be aware of how much responsibility you can handle. Take new challenges, but don’t be afraid to ask for help and guidance. Have realistic expectations for yourself and the adults you are working with. Transitioning into youth-friendly spaces requires a change of expectations on both sides. If you feel like you can handle more challenges, speak with MA staff or a mentor about how to do more. Encourage others, especially those younger than yourself, to do the same. Act as a mentor, or seek a mentor relationship with someone else who knows a bit more. Expand your projects to include as many participants as possible, or share your successes with other volunteers on a national, regional and global level. Reach out to youth from different backgrounds, especially youth that are high-risk or do not have a lot of access to a clinic or SRH information. Document your projects in a creative way. Thorough documentation will help you record what you have accomplished and help you get funding in the future. ²⁵ Criteria for Youth Projects. (1995). Youth Task Force and Youth Consultation Meeting. International Planned Parenthood Federation.

  35. Tips for Dealing with Conflict Conflicts are common, especially in working environments. Not facing conflicts can make working very uncomfortable. Conflicts are very sensitive situations and must be handled with care. Dealing with conflict in a productive way is a skill that needs to be developed. • Here are some tips on how to deal with conflict in a positive way: • As a volunteer or staff of a MA, you should be able to feel safe and comfortable in your working environment. Conflicts that make you uncomfortable should be addressed, but in a way that can have a positive outcome. • Don’t accuse anyone of anything. Try to speak about how you are feeling and how it is affecting your work instead. • If you are having a conflict with a peer, speak to a supervisor. • If you are having a conflict with an adult or your supervisor, ask for help from the volunteer coordinator or their supervisor. • Let your volunteer coordinator or supervisor guide you. Do not take matters into your own hands and do anything that will reflect badly on your character or which will make the conflict worse. • Be patient, and hope for a positive outcome rather than turning away from your work at the organization. • Always stay positive and believe that a resolution is possible. • Set up a particular time and place to speak only about the conflict. • Try to discuss issues in a safe environment, like the office of the volunteer coordinator or a supervisor, with a third party present. Do not bring up problems that are happening in front of other people. • If your supervisor or another volunteer is giving you too much of their work, you can start the discussion by asking to review the policy on volunteering with them.

  36. How can I tell if the Youth-Adult Partnership is being implemented? The Youth-Adult Partnership is a very important part of increasing youth participation and to achieve the 5 A’s laid out in the Strategic Framework. Below are some questions to ask yourself to measure how well the Youth-Adult Partnership is being implemented at your MA. • Have there been opportunities for adult staff and volunteers to share power with young people? • Do young people take leadership roles whenever possible? • Are young people and adults provided with opportunities (meetings, evaluation, procedures, and forums) to exchange feedback? • Are meetings held at convenient times and at places that allow young people to participate? • Do young people who participate in governance have a clear understanding of their roles and responsibilities? • Does the organization have terms of reference for youth volunteers that were developed jointly by adults and young people? ²⁶ ²⁶Samuel, Jayamalar. (2009). Report of the Winds of Change Skills Building Workshop. (2009). Kuala Lumpur: International Planned Parenthood Federation.

  37. Chapter 5: How can I stay involved with IPPF after I turn 25? I’m 25. Now what? As an IPPF volunteer, you will probably have a certain amount of skills and knowledge of the organization and issues that your MA dealt with. If you move on, you can: • Continue to volunteer as an adult. You can still do very interesting work as an adult volunteer. Perhaps you could offer to be a mentor for a younger volunteer who has just started in the area that you worked in before, and you may be able to relate very well to them and offer them emotional guidance and support • Continue to keep in touch with your MA and incorporate what you’ve learned into your new environment. If you are at school, maybe you can start a group of students who care about a certain issue that you handled during your work as a volunteer. IPPF can give resources, tips, and support for your project. • Perhaps you could find a position at another organization where you can link your projects up with IPPF and create an alliance between the two. • If you are proud of the work you have done, you may want to ask for a testimony from your MA recommending you for a job elsewhere. • Request or apply for a position at IPPF or at the MA. You will have experience and skills pertinent to what they need, so they may decide that having you on staff would be beneficial.

  38. Appendix • IPPF Policy 4.7 • MEETING THE NEEDS OF YOUNG PEOPLE • IPPF is committed to implementing the IPPF Youth Manifesto and to promoting, protecting and upholding the sexual and reproductive health rights of all young people , including the right: • to information and education on sexuality; • to comprehensive sexual and reproductive health services, including a full range of contraceptives; • to pleasure and confidence in relationships and all aspects of their sexuality; • to participate fully as active members of society • 2. The Federation and its member FPAs are urged to work towards removing all legal, administrative, institutional and other barriers adversely affecting young people's sexual and reproductive health rights.  • 3. IPPF and its member FPAs must recognise the diversity of young people's situations and strive to ensure that the sexual and reproductive health needs of young people are met regardless of age, sex, sexual orientation, race, disability, background, beliefs, HIV or other status. IPPF is committed to addressing the factors that render young people especially vulnerable to HIV/AIDS, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unwanted pregnancies and other sexual and reproductive health (SRH) issues. • The Right to Information and Education • IPPF and member family planning associations are urged to advocate for and • provide SRH information and education that enhances the independence and self- • esteem of young people and provides them with the knowledge and confidence to • make informed choices. The following should be taken into account in the • provision of SRH information and education: • Information should be accessible to children and young people of all ages in • accordance with their evolving capacities. • II. Whether sexually active or not, and irrespective of sexual orientation, young people • should be given the information to enable them to feel comfortable and confident • about their bodies and their sexuality. • III. Comprehensive sexuality education should be provided that helps young people • acquire the skills to negotiate relationships and safer sexual practices, including • whether and when to engage in sexual intercourse. • IV. Broad based information and education strategies are needed to address young • people both in and out of school. Special attention should be paid to the most • disadvantaged young people.

  39. The Right to Sexual and Reproductive Health Services • 5. IPPF is committed to the provision and promotion of "Youth friendly" services which are easily available to all young people irrespective of their age, sex, marital status, or financial situation. Member FPAs are encouraged to provide youth friendly services and lobby for their provision including the following: • Sexual and reproductive health services for young people that are accessible and assure privacy. Confidentiality must be paramount. • Staff members who always treat young clients with respect and in a supportive and non-judgemental manner. • Special attention and specific approaches that meet the different needs of young men and young women. • Access to a full range of contraceptives. • The elimination of unsafe abortion among young women. Counseling should include all the different options open to her and be responsive to personal circumstances and cultural background. • Sensitive and supportive post abortion counselling and follow-up for young women. Contraceptive counselling and services should be made available to reduce the risk of further unwanted pregnancies. • The Right to Pleasure and Confidence • IPPF believes that young people with knowledge, confidence and comfort with their own bodies are better equipped to negotiate relationships, including any sexual relationships they may have now and in the future. IPPF also recognizes the right of all young people to enjoy sex and express their sexuality in the way that they choose. • IPPF and FPAs should strive to empower young people, to give them confidence in • themselves and to encourage them to know their rights and respect the rights of • others. Such an approach is necessary in order to ensure young people's sexual and • reproductive health as well as their mental well-being. • Recognising that physical and mental well-being includes remaining free from all • forms of sexual violence and coercion, IPPF and FPAs should commit themselves to • eliminating gender based violence towards young people, including female genital • mutilation. FPAs are encouraged to offer services for young survivors of violence • and advocate on the issues of sexual and gender-based violence.

  40. The Right to Participate • 9. IPPF encourages member FPAs to support young people and ensure they receive practical skills and knowledge so they can participate to the best of their ability in society. IPPF and FPAs are urged to take the following into account in their work with young people: • When FPA programmes and services are being designed, implemented and evaluated, every effort should be made to involve young people and ensure they have real decision making power. • FPAs and Regions are strongly urged to attain at least twenty percent young people on their decision-making bodies in line with IPPF's Governing Council structure. • The participation of young people should be built around the equal partnership of young people and adults. • Young people need to be supported to participate in all of the above through the provision of resources (material and financial), information and training. • FPAs shall not discriminate on grounds of age, especially in approving applications for membership of the FPA, providing information or services, in recruiting staff or in any other aspect of the Associations work, subject to local law. Indeed, FPAs should make efforts to actively recruit young people as members of FPAs.

  41. IPPF Policy 1.2 • VOLUNTEERING • The dedicated commitment of volunteers is the base on which IPPF was founded and continues to be a major source of the Federation’s strength and influence. • A volunteer in IPPF shares the Federation’s mission, vision and values and offers his or her time, knowledge, skills and experience free of charge to a Member Association. Volunteers do so with the aim of making a difference to their community and improving the sexual and reproductive health and well being of the people the Association exists to serve. • Most volunteers pay a nominal membership subscription to their Member Association which entitles them to participate in the democratic functioning of the organization. There are also volunteers who are willing to contribute their time and ideas without wishing to become a member formally. • Elected volunteer governing bodies provide leadership at all levels of the Federation in partnership with management.  • The amount of time volunteers invest in the work of IPPF will depend upon the role they undertake and the needs of the Member Association. Some people will volunteer every day, some will volunteer for a few hours a week and some will volunteer for one-off events and activities. Some volunteers will wish to contribute their efforts at the local community level while others may wish to get elected to their governing body to influence policy-making and future programmes of work. Each volunteer, however, has a part to play no matter how big or small. • Member Associations should identify opportunities for a diverse range of volunteers from different backgrounds, including youth volunteers, to contribute to their work – perhaps as a fundraiser, as a community distributor of contraceptives, as a peer educator, or an advocate with people of influence. Whatever the case, it is the responsibility of the Member Association to ensure that these individual contributions are effective, appreciated and recognised.

  42. ESEAOR Member Associations Sexual Health & Family Planning Australia (SH & FPA) www.shfpa.org.au Reproductive Health Association of Cambodia (RHAC) www.rhac.org.kh China Family Planning Assocation (CFPA) www.chinafpa.org.cn Cook Islands Family Welfare Association (CIFWA) +68 (2) - 234 20 Email: cooksfwa@oyster.net.ck Reproductive & Family Health Association of Fiji (RFHAF) +67 (9) - 3306 175 Email: rafhfiji@connect.com.fj Family Planning Association of Hong Kong (FPAHK) www.famplan.org.hk The Indonesian Planned Parenthood Association (IPPA) www.pkbi.or.id Email: ippf@pkbi.or.id Japan Family Planning Association, Inc. (JFPA) www.jfpa.or.jp/ Korean Family Planning & Maternal Child Health Association of DPRK (KFP&MCHA) +850 (2) - 3217 626/+850( 2) 3217 6926 Email: kfpmcha@co.chesin.com Planned Population Federation of Korea (PPFK) www.ppfk.or.kr/eng/index.asp Federation of Reproductive Health Associations of Malaysia (FRHAM) www.frham.org.my Mongolian Family Welfare Association (MFWA) www.mfwa.mn Email: mfwa.ippf@yahoo.com New Zealand Family Planning (NZFP) www.familyplanning.org.nz Family Planning Organization of the Philippines (FPOP) +63 (2) - 721 7302/+63 (2) 721 7101/+63 (2) 722 6466 www.fpop1969.org Email: fpop1969@yahoo.com Samoa Family Health Association (SFHA) +68 (5) - 269 29/+68 (5) - 265 49/+68 (5) - 208 85 Email: sfha@lesamoa.net Singapore Planned Parenthood Association (SPPA) www.sppa.org.sg

  43. Solomon Islands Planned Parenthood Association (SIPPA) +67 (7) - 229 91/+67 (7) - 27554 Email: msalini@fpsi.com.sb Planned Parenthood Association of Thailand (PPAT) www.ppat.or.th Tonga Family Health Association (TFHA) www.tongafamilyhealth.org.to Tuvalu Family Health Association (TuFHA) +68 (8) – 20411 Email: tufha@tuvalu.tv Vanuatu Family Health Association (VFHA) +67 (8) - 22140/+67 (8) – 36129 Email: vfha@vanuatu.com.vu Vietnam Family Planning Association (VINAFPA) +84 (4) - 3764 8091/+84 (4) - 3764 8094 Email: vinafpa@hn.vnn.vn ESEAOR Non Member Associations Kiribati Family Health Association (KFHA) +68(6) – 22885 Email: kfha@tksl.net.ki Lao Project Office +85(6) – 21 41 3261 Email: ippflaofo@laopdr.com Myanmar Maternal and Child Welfare Association (MMCWA) www.mmcwa.org Papua New Guinea Family Health Association (PNGFHA) +67(5) – 472 6827 E-mail: pngfha@datec.net.pg

  44. References Annual report: madrasah students initiative for adolescents health in Bangladesh. (2007). Family Planning Association of Bangladesh , Adolescent sexual and reproductive health: toolkit for humanitarian settings. (2009). UNFPA and Save the Children USA, Retrieved from http://www.unfpa.org/webdav/site/global/shared/documents /publications/2009/adol_toolkit_humanitarian.pdf Convention on the rights of the child. (1989). UN high commission for human rights. Retrieved (2009, August 1) from http://www2.ohchr.org/english/law/crc.htm Count me in: sexual rights for all. Retrieved from http://www.15andcounting.org/ Criteria for Youth Projects. (1995). Youth Task Force and Youth Consultation Meeting. International Planned Parenthood Federation. Factsheet: Young People and Universal Access to Reproductive Health. 2010. Youth Coalition. http://www.youthcoalition.org/site08/attachs/UARH_factsheet_ENGLISH.pdf Glossary. 2010, July. International Planned Parenthood Federation. Retrieved (2009 August 1) from http://glossary.ippf.org/GlossaryBrowser.aspx Health, Happy and Hot. (2010). International Planned Parenthood Federation. Retrieved (2010, August 4) from http://www.ippf.org/en/Resources/Guides-toolkits/Healthy+Happy+and+Hot.htm International Planned Parenthood Federation: 9th youth working group meeting report. (2008). Rabat, Morocco: International Planned Parenthood Federation. International Planned Parenthood Federation. (2007). Code of Good Governance. (2007). London: International Planned Parenthood Federation. International Planned Parenthood Federation: international medical advisory panel. (2009, August 1). Retrieved from http://www.ippf.org/en/Resources/Medical/International+Medical+Advisory+Panel.htm Setting standards for youth participation. (2004). London: International Planned Parenthood Federation. Samuel, Jayamalar. (2009). Report of the Winds of Change Skills Building Workshop. (2009). Kuala Lumpur: International Planned Parenthood Federation. Sexual rights: an IPPF declaration. (2006). International planned parenthood federation . Retrieved (2009, August 1) from http://www.ippf.org/NR/rdonlyres/9E4D697C-1C7D-4EF6- AA2A- 6D4D0A13A108/0/SexualRightsIPPFdeclaration.pdf United Nations. (1994). Programme of action - adopted from the international conference on population and development. Cairo, Egypt: United Nations. United Nations. (1994). Convention on the elimination of all forms of discrimination against women . New York: UN General Assembly. Voice! How the IPPF/youth manifesto can work for you. (2006). International planned parenthood federation . Retrieved (2009, August 1) from http://www.ippf.org/NR/rdonlyres/8D8B8E8E- 9224-47A6-8626- A0906F79DBBA/0/youthmanifesto.pdf WHO. Sexual health. (December 2007). Retrieved (2009, August 1) from: http://www.who.int/reproductive-health/gender/sexualhealth.html#3

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